U.S. patent application number 13/788239 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-14 for drilling rig employing top drive.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nabors Drilling International Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is NABORS DRILLING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED. Invention is credited to Sean M. Bailey, Ashish Gupta, Padria REDDY.
Application Number | 20130299244 13/788239 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49547749 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130299244 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
REDDY; Padria ; et
al. |
November 14, 2013 |
DRILLING RIG EMPLOYING TOP DRIVE
Abstract
An apparatus includes a carriage movable along a drilling tower,
a linking member pivotally coupled to the carriage, at least one
actuator extending between the carriage and the linking member to
pivot the linking member between first and second pivot positions,
and a top drive pivotally coupled to the linking member. According
to another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling tower, a
carriage movably coupled to the drilling tower, a linking member
pivotally coupled to the carriage to permit the linking member to
pivot between first and second pivot positions, and a top drive
extending longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling
tower, the top drive being pivotally coupled to the linking member
to permit the top drive to continue to extend longitudinally in a
parallel relation to the drilling tower when the linking member
pivots between the first and second pivot positions.
Inventors: |
REDDY; Padria; (Richmond,
TX) ; Gupta; Ashish; (Houston, TX) ; Bailey;
Sean M.; (Willis, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NABORS DRILLING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED |
Hamilton |
|
BM |
|
|
Assignee: |
; Nabors Drilling International
Limited
Hamilton
BM
|
Family ID: |
49547749 |
Appl. No.: |
13/788239 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61646686 |
May 14, 2012 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
175/57 ;
175/162 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 19/06 20130101;
E21B 19/14 20130101; E21B 3/02 20130101; E21B 19/083 20130101; E21B
19/08 20130101; E21B 15/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
175/57 ;
175/162 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/08 20060101
E21B019/08 |
Claims
1. An apparatus, comprising: a carriage movable along a drilling
tower; a linking member pivotally coupled to the carriage; at least
one actuator extending between the carriage and the linking member
to pivot the linking member between first and second pivot
positions; and a top drive pivotally coupled to the linking
member.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the drilling tower
arranged to extend longitudinally along a first axis; wherein the
top drive extends longitudinally in a parallel relation to the
tower; and wherein the pivot coupling between the top drive and the
linking member permits the top drive to continue to extend
longitudinally in a parallel relation to the tower when the linking
member pivots between the first and second pivot positions.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the top drive is spaced from
the drilling tower by first and second spacings when the linking
member is in the first and second pivot positions, respectively,
the first and second spacings extending in a direction that is
perpendicular to the first axis, the second spacing being greater
than the first spacing.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising: a platform to which
the drilling tower is coupled; and a first opening formed in the
platform and adapted to be disposed above a wellbore, the first
opening defining a third axis that is spaced in a parallel relation
from the first axis by the first spacing.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 further comprising a second opening
formed in the platform and adapted to receive a tubular member, the
second opening defining a fourth axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the second spacing.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the linking member comprises
first and second members spaced in a parallel relation, the first
and second members being pivotally coupled to the carriage at a
first pivot connection, the first and second members being
pivotally coupled to the top drive at a second pivot
connection.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the second pivot connection
pivots about the first pivot connection when the linking member
pivots between the first and second pivot positions.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 wherein the at least one actuator
comprises first and second actuators, the first actuator extending
between the carriage and the first member, the second actuator
extending between the carriage and the second member.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the linking member further
comprises a plurality of transversely-extending members, each of
which extends between the first and second members.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein each of the first and second
members is an arcuate member.
11. An apparatus, comprising: a drilling tower extending
longitudinally along a first axis; a carriage movably coupled to
the drilling tower; a linking member pivotally coupled to the
carriage to permit the linking member to pivot between first and
second pivot positions about a second axis that is perpendicular to
the first axis; and a top drive extending longitudinally in a
parallel relation to the drilling tower, the top drive being
pivotally coupled to the linking member to permit the top drive to
continue to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the
drilling tower when the linking member pivots between the first and
second pivot positions.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the top drive is spaced from
the drilling tower by first and second spacings when the linking
member is in the first and second pivot positions, respectively,
the first and second spacings extending in a direction that is
perpendicular to the first axis; and wherein the second spacing is
greater than the first spacing.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising: a platform to
which the drilling tower is coupled; and a first opening formed in
the platform and adapted to be disposed above a wellbore, the first
opening defining a third axis that is spaced in a parallel relation
from the first axis by the first spacing.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 further comprising a second opening
formed in the platform and adapted to receive a tubular member, the
second opening defining a fourth axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the second spacing.
15. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising: at least one
actuator extending between the carriage and the linking member to
pivot the linking member between the first and second pivot
positions.
16. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising a base to which
the drilling tower is pivotally coupled to pivot the drilling tower
between third and fourth pivot positions; wherein the drilling
tower comprises: a first portion; and a second portion pivotally
coupled to the first portion to pivot the second portion between
fifth and sixth pivot positions when the drilling tower is in the
third pivot position; and wherein the top drive is movable along
each of the first and second portions of the drilling tower when
the second portion is in the sixth pivot position.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 further comprising: a second linking
member coupled to each of the carriage and the top drive to pivot
between seventh and eighth pivot positions; wherein the top drive
defines a third axis that is parallel to the first axis; wherein a
first spacing is defined between the third axis and the first
portion of the drilling tower when the second linking member is in
the seventh pivot position; wherein a second spacing is defined
between the third axis and the first portion of the drilling tower
when the other linking member is in the eighth pivot position; and
wherein the second spacing is greater than the first spacing.
18. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising a tubular handling
device to position one or more tubular members proximate the
drilling tower, the tubular handling device comprising: a first
gripper to engage a first tubular member; and a first arm coupled
to the first gripper, the first arm defining: a third axis that is
parallel to the first axis and spaced therefrom in a first
direction, the first arm being movable along, and pivotable about,
the third axis; and a fourth axis that is perpendicular to the
third axis, the fourth axis being movable from the third axis in
the first direction and movable to the third axis in a second
direction opposite the first direction, the first gripper being
rotatable, relative to the first arm, about the fourth axis.
19. A method, comprising: providing a drilling tower extending
longitudinally along a first axis; coupling a carriage to the
drilling tower; pivotally coupling a linking member to the carriage
to permit the linking member to pivot between first and second
pivot positions about a second axis that is perpendicular to the
first axis; and pivotally coupling a top drive to the linking
member so that the top drive extends longitudinally in a parallel
relation to the drilling tower, the top drive being pivotally
coupled to the linking member to permit the top drive to continue
to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling
tower when the linking member pivots between the first and second
pivot positions.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein the top drive is spaced from the
drilling tower by first and second spacings when the linking member
is in the first and second pivot positions, respectively, the first
and second spacings extending in a direction that is perpendicular
to the first axis; and wherein the second spacing is greater than
the first spacing.
21. The method of claim 20 further comprising: coupling the
drilling tower to a platform; wherein a first opening is formed in
the platform and is adapted to be disposed above a wellbore, the
first opening defining a third axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the first spacing.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein a second opening is formed in
the platform and is adapted to receive a tubular member, the second
opening defining a fourth axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the second spacing.
23. The method of claim 19 further comprising: extending at least
one actuator between the carriage and the linking member to pivot
the linking member between the first and second pivot
positions.
24. The method of claim 19 wherein the drilling tower comprises a
first portion and a second portion pivotally coupled thereto; and
wherein the method further comprises: pivoting the drilling tower
between third and fourth pivot positions; pivoting the second
portion between fifth and sixth pivot positions when the drilling
tower is in the third pivot position; and moving the top drive
along each of the first and second portions of the drilling tower
when the second portion is in the sixth pivot position.
25. The method of claim 24 further comprising: pivotally coupling
another linking member to each of the first portion and the top
drive to pivot between seventh and eighth pivot positions; wherein
the top drive defines a third axis that is parallel to the first
axis; wherein a first spacing is defined between the third axis and
the first portion of the drilling tower when the second linking
member is in the seventh pivot position; wherein a second spacing
is defined between the third axis and the first portion of the
drilling tower when the other linking member is in the eighth pivot
position; and wherein the second spacing is greater than the first
spacing.
26. The method of claim 19 further comprising: employing a tubular
handling device to position one or more tubular members proximate
the drilling tower, comprising: providing a first gripper; coupling
a first arm to the first gripper, the first arm defining: a second
axis that is parallel to the first axis and spaced therefrom in a
first direction, and a third axis that is perpendicular to the
second axis; moving the first arm along the second axis; pivoting
the first arm about the second axis; moving the third axis from the
second axis in the first direction; rotating the first gripper,
relative to the first arm, about the third axis; engaging a first
tubular member with the first gripper; and moving the third axis,
the first gripper and the first tubular member towards the second
axis in a second direction opposite the first direction.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein employing the tubular handling
device further comprises: providing a second gripper; coupling a
second arm to the second gripper, the second arm defining: a fourth
axis that is parallel to the first axis and spaced therefrom in the
first direction, and a fifth axis that is perpendicular to the
fourth axis; moving the second arm along the fourth axis; pivoting
the second arm about the fourth axis; moving the fifth axis from
the fourth axis in the first direction; rotating the second
gripper, relative to the second arm, about the fifth axis; engaging
a second tubular member with the second gripper; and moving the
fifth axis, the second gripper and the second tubular member
towards the fourth axis in the second direction.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/646,686 filed May 14, 2012, entitled
"Drilling Rig and Methods," to Reddy et al., the entire disclosure
of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure relates in general to drilling rigs,
and in particular to drilling rigs employing top drives, tubular
handling devices, pivoting drilling towers, or combinations
thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] The present disclosure is best understood from the following
detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is
emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the
industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the
dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or
reduced for clarity of discussion.
[0004] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an apparatus according
to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0005] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the apparatus
shown in FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0006] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the apparatus
shown in FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of a portion of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 5 is a section view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4
according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 6 is a section view of a component of the apparatus
shown in FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of components of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to
one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of the apparatus
shown in FIG. 8 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of a portion of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 8 according to one or more aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the portion shown in
FIG. 10 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 12 is a section view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 10
according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of an apparatus according to
one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 14 is a view similar to that of FIG. 13, but depicts a
different operational mode of the apparatus according to one or
more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a portion of the apparatus
shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, but depicts a different operational mode
of the apparatus according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 16 is a schematic elevational view of an apparatus
according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 17 is a schematic top plan view of the apparatus shown
in FIG. 16 according to one or more aspects of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] It is to be understood that the following disclosure
provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing
different features of various embodiments. Specific examples of
components and arrangements are described below to simplify the
present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are
not intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure
may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various
examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and
clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the
various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. Moreover, the
formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the
description that follows may include embodiments in which the first
and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also
include embodiments in which additional features may be formed
interposing the first and second features, such that the first and
second features may not be in direct contact.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is an elevational view of
an apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 may be, include, or be part of, a
land-based drilling rig. In several exemplary embodiments, instead
of a land-based drilling rig, the apparatus 10 may be, include, or
be part of, any type of drilling rig, such as a jack-up rig, a
semi-submersible rig, a drill ship, a coil tubing rig, a platform
rig, a slant rig, or a casing drilling rig, among others. The
apparatus 10 includes a platform 12, which includes a rig floor 14
that is positioned adjacent or above a wellbore 16. In several
exemplary embodiments, the platform 12 may be, include, or be a
part of, one or more of several types of platforms. A drilling mast
or tower 18 is coupled to the platform 12, and extends
longitudinally along an axis 20. In one embodiment, the tower 18 is
releasably coupled. A support member 22 extends between the
platform 12 and the tower 18. A carriage 24 is movably coupled to
the tower 18. A top drive 26 is coupled to the carriage 24. The top
drive 26 extends longitudinally in a parallel relation to the tower
18. As will be described in further detail below, the carriage 24
and the top drive 26 coupled thereto are movable along the axis 20,
relative to the tower 18. As will be described in further detail
below, the top drive 26 is movable, relative to the tower 18,
between positions 28 and 30, as shown in FIG. 1. In several
exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 10 does not include the top
drive 26; instead, the apparatus 10 may be, include, or be a part
of, another type of drilling rig such as, for example, a
rotary-swivel rig or a power-swivel rig.
[0023] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, illustrated are perspective
views of portions of the apparatus 10. The tower 18 includes a
frame 32 and support legs 34a and 34b, which extend between the
frame 32 and the rig floor 14. Racks 36a and 36b are coupled to
opposing sides of the frame 32. In another embodiment (not shown),
the racks 36a and 36b are integrally formed with the frame 32. The
racks 36a and 36b extend through an opening 38 defined by the
carriage 24. The frame 32 includes a front panel 40, which extends
between the racks 36a and 36b. A linking member 42 is pivotally
coupled to the carriage 24 at a pivot connection 44. The linking
member 42 includes parallel-spaced arcuate members 46a and 46b, and
a plurality of transversely-extending members 47 extending
therebetween. Actuators 48a and 48b extend angularly between the
carriage 24 and the arcuate members 46a and 46b, respectively. In
an exemplary embodiment, the actuators 48a and 48b are hydraulic
cylinders. In several exemplary embodiments, each of the actuators
48a and 48b is, includes, or is part of, a hydraulic actuator, an
electromagnetic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a linear actuator,
and/or any combination thereof.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 4, illustrated is an elevational view of a
portion of the apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the top drive 26
is pivotally coupled to the linking member 42 at a pivot connection
50. Electric motors 52a, 52b and 52c are coupled to the carriage 24
and thus also to the top drive 26. Likewise, electric motors 54a,
54b and 54c are coupled to the carriage 24 and thus also to the top
drive 26, and are spaced from the electric motors 52a, 52b and 52c
in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis 20. In an
exemplary embodiment, each of the electric motors 52a-52c and
54a-54c is an AC motor and is controlled by either a single
variable-frequency drive (VFD) or multiple VFDs, which is/are
synchronized and programmed to work simultaneously with the other
motors to provide uniform motion and torque. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the electric motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c
are controlled by a single VFD. In an exemplary embodiment, one or
more the electric motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c are controlled by
multiple VFDs. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the electric
motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c is an AC motor and provides primary
dynamic braking. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the electric
motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c includes a gearbox and a brake therein
or thereat. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the electric motors
52a-52c and 54a-54c includes an encoder incorporated on the motor
shaft to provide more precise VFD control.
[0025] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, illustrated are a section view
taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4, and a section view of the frame 32,
respectively. A pinion 56 is operably coupled to the electric motor
52a. The pinion 56 is engaged with the rack 36a. Likewise, a pinion
58 is operably coupled to the electric motor 54a. The pinion 58 is
engaged with the rack 36b, and is spaced from the pinion 56 in a
direction 59 that is perpendicular to the axis 20. As shown in FIG.
5, the carriage 24 includes a center portion 60 and guide portions
62a and 62b extending therefrom. The guide portion 62a extends past
the rack 36a, and wraps around the frame 32 to engage a panel 64 of
the frame 32 via a guide element 66a. Similarly, the guide portion
62b extends past the rack 36b and wraps around the frame 32 to
engage the panel 64 via a guide element 66b. The electric motors
52a-52c and 54a-54c are coupled to the center portion 60 of the
carriage 24. The center portion 60 engages the panel 40 of the
frame 32 via guide elements 68a and 68b.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 7, illustrated is a rear elevational view
of respective portions of the pinion 56, the rack 36a, the center
portion 60 of the carriage 24, and the panel 40 of the frame 32 of
the tower 18. As shown in FIG. 7, a tooth 56a of the pinion 56
extends between, and engages, adjacent teeth 36aa and 36ab of the
rack 36a. Although not shown in the figures, pinions, each of which
is substantially identical to the pinion 56, are operably coupled
to the electric motors 52b and 52c, respectively, and engage the
rack 36a. Similarly, pinions, each of which is substantially
identical to the pinion 58, are operably coupled to the electric
motors 54b and 54c, respectively, and engage the rack 36b.
[0027] In operation, in an exemplary embodiment with continuing
reference to FIGS. 1-7, the apparatus 10 is employed to assemble a
string of tubular members (or tubulars), such as drill pipe or
casing as part of oil and gas exploration and production
operations. More particularly, at least one tubular member is
temporarily coupled to the top drive 26, which operates to couple
(or separate) that tubular member to (or from) another tubular
member which already extends within the wellbore 16 or is
vertically positioned between the wellbore 16 and the tubular
member coupled to the top drive 26. For all embodiments described
herein, the operations disclosed herein may be conducted in reverse
to trip pipe or casing out of a wellbore and disconnect tubular
members or pairs of tubular members from the string of tubular
members. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, an opening 70 is formed
in the platform 12, and the opening 70 receives a tubular member 72
from a tubular handling device (not shown). As shown in FIGS. 1 and
2, a tubular member 73 may be coupled to the tubular member 72, and
the top drive 26 may be employed to couple both the tubular members
72 and 73 to another tubular member which already extends within
the wellbore 16 or is vertically positioned between the wellbore 16
and the tubular member 73; this other tubular member may be part of
a string of drill pipe or casing.
[0028] The electric motors 52a-52c cause the respective pinions
operably coupled thereto, including the pinion 56, to rotate and
engage teeth of the rack 36a. Likewise, the electric motors 54a-54c
cause the respective pinions operably coupled thereto, including
the pinion 58, to rotate and engage teeth of the rack 36b. As a
result, the carriage 24 and thus the top drive 26 move along the
axis 20 and relative to the tower 18 as necessary so that the top
drive 26 is at a position along the axis 20 at which the tubular
member 72 can be coupled to the top drive 26. Before, during or
after the top drive 26 is at that position along the axis 20, the
actuators 48a and 48b actuate, extending their respective lengths.
As a result, the linking member 42 pivots about an axis 74 (shown
in FIG. 4), which extends through the pivot connection 44 and is
perpendicular to the axis 20. As viewed in FIG. 1, the linking
member 42 pivots in a counterclockwise direction about the axis 74.
The linking member 42 pivots from a pivot position corresponding to
respective retracted positions of the actuators 48a and 48b, to a
pivot position corresponding to respective extended positions of
the actuators 48a and 48b. During this pivoting, the pivot
connection 50 pivots about the pivot connection 44 in a
counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 1. Since the top
drive 26 is pivotally coupled to the linking member 42 at the pivot
connection 50, the top drive 26 continues to extend longitudinally
in a parallel relation to the tower 18 when the linking member 42
pivots.
[0029] As a result of the extension of the actuators 48a and 48b
and thus the pivoting of each of the linking member 42 and the top
drive 26, the top drive 26 moves between the position 28 and the
position 30, which positions are shown in FIG. 1. Thus, the top
drive 26 is spaced from the tower 18 by a spacing 76, the spacing
76 extending in a direction 78 that is perpendicular to the axis
20. An axis 80 is defined by the opening 70, and is spaced in a
parallel relation from the axis 20 by the spacing 76. After the top
drive 26 is at the position 30, the top drive 26 moves downward
along the axis 80 and couples to the tubular member 72. The
electric motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c move the top drive 26 upward
along the axis 80 and relative to the tower 18, lifting the tubular
member 72 and the tubular member 73 coupled thereto.
[0030] After the tubular member 73 has vertically cleared the rig
floor 14, the actuators 48a and 48b are actuated to their
respective retracted positions. To be clear, the vertical clearance
should be sufficient to provide clearance of the tubular member 73
even if it is lowered slightly as the top drive 26 returns to the
position 28; alternatively, it is desired to have a corresponding
upward movement of the top drive 26 along the axis 80 as the top
drive 26 returns to the position 28 as further discussed below. As
a result, the linking member 42 pivots about the axis 74. As viewed
in FIG. 1, the linking member 42 pivots in a clockwise direction
about the axis 74. Since the top drive 26 is pivotally coupled to
the linking member 42 at the pivot connection 50, the top drive 26
continues to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the
tower 18 when the linking member 42 pivots. As a result of the
retraction of the actuators 48a and 48b and thus the pivoting of
each of the linking member 42 and the top drive 26, the top drive
26 is spaced from the tower 18 by a spacing 82, the spacing 82
extending in the direction 78. The spacing 82 is less than the
spacing 76. In an exemplary embodiment, as a result of the
retraction of the actuators 48a and 48b and thus the pivoting of
the linking member 42 and the top drive 26, the top drive 26 moves
from the position 30 and back to the position 28. In several
exemplary embodiments, as a result of the retraction of the
actuators 48a and 48b and thus the pivoting of the linking member
42 and the top drive 26, the top drive 26 moves from the position
30 and back to a position located between the positions 28 and 30
in the direction 78.
[0031] The electric motors 52a-52c and 54a-54c move the top drive
26 downward along the axis 20 and relative to the tower 80,
lowering the tubular members 72 and 73 through an opening 84 formed
in the platform 12. The opening 84 defines an axis 86, which is
spaced in a parallel relation from the axis 20 by the spacing 82.
The axis 86 is generally coaxial with the wellbore 16. Before,
during or after the lowering of the tubular members 72 and 73, the
top drive 26 operates to couple the tubular member 73 to another
tubular member either extending in the wellbore 16 or being
vertically positioned between the wellbore 16 and the tubular
member 73; this other tubular member may be part of a string of
drill pipe or casing. In several exemplary embodiments, during or
after the lowering of the tubular members 72 and 73, the top drive
26 is positioned at the position 28 shown in FIG. 1, or at a
position located between the positions 28 and 30 in the direction
78.
[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the motors 52c and 54c may be
omitted from the apparatus 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the
motors 52b, 52c, 54b and 54c may be omitted from the apparatus 10.
In an exemplary embodiment, in addition to the motors 52a-52c and
54a-54c, one or more additional electric motors may be coupled to
the carriage 24 and employed to move the top drive 26.
[0033] Referring to FIG. 8, illustrated is a perspective view of an
apparatus 88, which includes a base 90 and a drilling mast or tower
92 pivotally coupled thereto at a pivot connection 94. In an
exemplary embodiment, the base 90 is part of, or is mounted on, a
mobile trailer. The tower 92 includes a portion 92a and a portion
92b pivotally coupled thereto at a pivot connection 96. The portion
92a extends longitudinally along an axis 97. When the portion 92b
is in the pivot position shown in FIG. 8, the portion 92b also
extends longitudinally along the axis 97. A carriage 98 is movably
coupled to the tower 92. A top drive 100 is coupled to the carriage
98. The top drive 100 extends longitudinally in a parallel relation
to the tower 92. In several exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 88
does not include the top drive 100; instead, the apparatus 88 may
be, include, or be a part of, another type of drilling rig such as,
for example, a rotary-swivel rig or a power-swivel rig.
[0034] Electric motors 104 and 106 are coupled to the carriage 98
and thus to the top drive 100. The electric motors 104 and 106 are
spaced from each other in a direction that is parallel to the axis
97. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the electric motors 104 and
106 is an AC motor and is controlled by either a single
variable-frequency drive (VFD) or multiple VFDs, which is/are
synchronized and programmed to work simultaneously with the other
motors to provide uniform motion and torque. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the electric motors 104 and 106 are
controlled by a single VFD. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more
the electric motors 104 and 106 are controlled by multiple VFDs. In
an exemplary embodiment, each of the electric motors 104 and 106 is
an AC motor and provides primary dynamic braking. In an exemplary
embodiment, each of the electric motors 104 and 106 includes a
gearbox and a brake therein or thereat. In an exemplary embodiment,
each of the electric motors 104 and 106 includes an encoder
incorporated on the motor shaft to provide more precise VFD
control. A telescoping support member 108 extends between the base
90 and the portion 92a of the tower 92.
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, illustrated are perspective
and elevational views of a portion of the apparatus 88. The tower
92 includes a frame 110, and racks 112a and 112b coupled to
opposing sides of the frame 110. In another embodiment, the frame
110 and the racks 112a and 112b are integrally formed. A linking
member 114 is pivotally coupled to the carriage 98 at a pivot
connection 116. The linking member 114 includes parallel-spaced
arcuate members 118a and 118b, and a plurality of
transversely-extending members 120 extending therebetween.
Actuators 122a and 122b extend angularly between the carriage 98
and the arcuate members 118a and 118b, respectively. In an
exemplary embodiment, the actuators 122a and 122b are hydraulic
cylinders. In several exemplary embodiments, each of the actuators
122a and 122b is, includes, or is part of, a hydraulic actuator, an
electromagnetic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a linear actuator,
and/or any combination thereof. The top drive 100 is pivotally
coupled to the linking member 114 at a pivot connection 124. The
electric motors 104 and 106 include right-angle drives 104a and
106a, respectively.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 12, illustrated is a section view taken
along line 12-12 of FIG. 10. A pinion 126 is operably coupled to
the electric motor 106. Although not shown, a pinion that is
identical to the pinion 126 is operably coupled to the electric
motor 104 in a manner identical to the manner by which the pinion
126 is operably coupled to the electric motor 106. A pinion 128 is
coupled to the carriage 98 and engages the rack 112a. Unlike the
pinion 126, the pinion 128 is not operably coupled to an electric
motor and thus does not rotate to cause the carriage 98 to move
relative to the tower 92; instead, the pinion 128 rotates in
response to movement of the carriage 98 relative to the tower 92. A
pinion 130 (shown in hidden lines in FIG. 9) is coupled to the
carriage 98 and engages the rack 112b. Unlike the pinion 126, the
pinion 130 is not operably coupled to an electric motor and thus
does not rotate to cause the carriage 98 to move relative to the
tower 92; instead, the pinion 130 rotates in response to movement
of the carriage 98 relative to the tower 92.
[0037] In operation, with continuing reference to FIGS. 8-12, in an
exemplary embodiment, the base 90 is positioned adjacent a rig
substructure (not shown). The portion 92a initially extends
parallel to the base 90 in, for example, a horizontal arrangement.
The portion 92b of the tower 92 initially is in a pivot position at
which the portion 92b is folded back over onto the portion 92a of
the tower 92. The portion 92b is pivoted at the pivot connection 96
in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 11, and a
counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 8 to extend, such as
to its full length. The portion 92b continues to so pivot until the
portion 92b is at the pivot position shown in FIGS. 8-12, at which
position the portions 92a and 92b are flush and extend
longitudinally along the axis 97, and the carriage 98 and thus the
top drive 100 are movable along each of the portions 92a and 92b.
The telescoping support member 108 is actuated, causing the tower
92, and thus the carriage 98 and the top drive 100, to pivot at the
pivot connection 94, in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIG.
8.
[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, during operation, the electric
motor 106 causes the pinion 126 to rotate and engage the teeth of
the rack 112b. Likewise, the electric motor 104 causes the pinion
operably coupled thereto (which is identical to the pinion 126) to
rotate and engage the teeth of the rack 112a. As a result, the
carriage 98 and thus the top drive 100 move up or down, along the
axis 97 and relative to the tower 92 as necessary or desired.
[0039] In several exemplary embodiments, during operation, before,
during or after the top drive 100 is at a necessary or desired
position along the axis 97, the actuators 122a and 122b may
actuate, extending their respective lengths. As a result, the
linking member 114 pivots at the pivot connection 116. As viewed in
FIG. 11, the linking member 114 pivots in a clockwise direction at
the pivot connection 116. The linking member 114 pivots from a
pivot position corresponding to respective retracted positions of
the actuators 122a and 122b, to a pivot position corresponding to
respective extended positions of the actuators 122a and 112b. Since
the top drive 100 is pivotally coupled to the linking member 114 at
the pivot connection 124, the top drive 100 continues to extend
longitudinally in a parallel relation to the tower 92 when the
linking member 114 pivots. The horizontal spacing between the tower
92 and the top drive 100 increases as a result of the linking
member 114 pivoting from a pivot position corresponding to
respective retracted positions of the actuators 122a and 122b, to a
pivot position corresponding to respective extended positions of
the actuators 122a and 112b.
[0040] In several exemplary embodiments, during operation, after
the linking member 114 has pivoted to a pivot position
corresponding to the respective extended positions of the actuators
112a and 112b, the actuators 112a and 112b may be actuated to their
respective retracted positions. As a result, the linking member 114
pivots in a counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 11. Since
the top drive 100 is pivotally coupled to the linking member 114 at
the pivot connection 124, the top drive 100 continues to extend
longitudinally in a parallel relation to the tower 92 when the
linking member 114 pivots. The horizontal spacing between the tower
92 and the top drive 100 decreases as a result of the retraction of
the actuators 112a and 112b and thus the pivoting of each of the
linking member 114 and the top drive 100.
[0041] In operation, in an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 88
is employed to assemble a string of tubular members, such as drill
pipe or casing as part of oil and gas exploration and production
operations, in a manner similar to the above-described manner in
which the apparatus 10 is employed to assemble a string of tubular
members. In several exemplary embodiments, during operation, after
the apparatus 88 has been placed in the configuration shown in
FIGS. 8-12 by pivoting the portion 92b, and pivoting the tower 92,
aspects of the operation of the apparatus 88 are substantially
similar to corresponding aspects of the above-described operation
of the apparatus 10. Therefore, the operation of the embodiment of
the apparatus 88 illustrated in FIGS. 8-12 will not be described in
further detail.
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 13, 14 and 15, illustrated are
elevational views of an apparatus 131, which, unless otherwise
noted below, contains the parts of the apparatus 88, which parts
are given the same reference numerals. As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the
top drive 100 defines an axis 134. In contrast to the apparatus 88
illustrated in FIGS. 8-12, the linking member 114, the pivot
connection 116, the arcuate members 118a and 118b, the plurality of
transversely-extending members 120, the actuators 122a and 122b,
and the pivot connection 124 are omitted from the apparatus 131
illustrated in FIGS. 13-15. Instead, in the apparatus 131
illustrated in FIGS. 13-15, the top drive 100 includes a support
member 136, which extends in a parallel relation to the portion
92a. An actuator 138 extends between the carriage 98 and the
support member 136. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator 138
includes a plurality of parallel-spaced actuators, each of which is
identical to the actuator 138. A linking member 140 is pivotally
coupled to each of the carriage 98 and the support member 136. The
linking member 140 is pivotally coupled to the support member 136
at one end portion thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the linking
member 140 includes a plurality of parallel-spaced linking members,
each of which is identical to the linking member 140. A linking
member 142 is pivotally coupled to each of the carriage 98 and the
support member 136. The linking member 142 is pivotally coupled to
the support member 136 at the end portion thereof opposite the end
portion at which the linking member 140 is pivotally coupled. In an
exemplary embodiment, the linking member 142 includes a plurality
of parallel-spaced linking members, each of which is identical to
the linking member 142.
[0043] In operation, in an exemplary embodiment, the base 90 is
positioned adjacent a rig substructure 132, which defines an axis
133. As shown in FIG. 13, the portion 92a initially extends
horizontally along the base 90. The portion 92b of the tower 92
initially is in a pivot position at which the portion 92b is folded
back over onto the portion 92a of the tower 92. The portion 92b is
pivoted at the pivot connection 96 in a clockwise direction, as
viewed in FIGS. 13 and 14. The portion 92b continues to so pivot
until the portion 92b is at the pivot position shown in FIG. 14, at
which position the portions 92a and 92b are flush at an adjacent
end of each, and the carriage 98 and thus the top drive 100 are
movable along each of the portions 92a and 92b.
[0044] Before the portion 92b is pivoted from the pivot position
shown in FIG. 13 to the pivot position shown in FIG. 14, the
actuator 138 is in its retracted position, as shown in FIG. 13. As
a result, a spacing 144 is defined between the axis 134 and the
portion 92a of the tower 92.
[0045] Before, during or after the portion 92b is pivoted from the
pivot position shown in FIG. 13 to the pivot position shown in FIG.
14, the actuator 138 is actuated to place the actuator 138 in its
extended position. As a result of the extension of the actuator
138, the linking members 140 and 142 pivot about their respective
pivot connections at the carriage 98, pivoting in a clockwise
direction as viewed in FIG. 14. As a result, a spacing 146 is
defined between the axis 134 and the portion 92a of the tower 92.
The spacing 146 is greater than the spacing 144. Since the top
drive 100 is coupled to the support member 136, the top drive 100
continues to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the
tower 92 when the linking members 140 and 142 pivot.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 15, the telescoping support member 108 is
actuated, causing the tower 92, and thus the carriage 98 and the
top drive 100, to pivot at the pivot connection 94, in a
counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 15. As a result, the
axis 134 is aligned with the axis 133 of the rig substructure.
[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, during operation, the electric
motor 106 causes the pinion 126 to rotate and engage the teeth of
the rack 112b. Likewise, the electric motor 104 causes the pinion
operably coupled thereto (which is identical to the pinion 126) to
rotate and engage the teeth of the rack 112a. As a result, the
carriage 98 and thus the top drive 100 move up or down, relative to
the tower 92, as necessary or desired.
[0048] In several exemplary embodiments, during operation, before,
during or after the top drive 100 is at a necessary or desired
position relative to the tower 92, the actuator 138 may be actuated
to its retracted position. As a result, the linking members 140 and
142 pivot about their respective pivot connections at the carriage
98, pivoting in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 15.
Since the top drive 100 is coupled to the support member 136, the
top drive 100 continues to extend longitudinally in a parallel
relation to the tower 92 when the linking members 140 and 142
pivot.
[0049] In operation, in an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 131
is employed to assemble a string of tubular members, such as drill
pipe or casing as part of oil and gas exploration and production
operations, in a manner similar to the above-described manner in
which the apparatus 10 is employed to assemble a string of tubular
members. In several exemplary embodiments, during operation, after
the apparatus 131 has been placed in the configuration shown in
FIG. 15 by pivoting the portion 92b, and pivoting the tower 92,
aspects of the operation of the apparatus 131 are substantially
similar to corresponding aspects of the above-described operation
of the apparatus 10. Therefore, the operation of the apparatus 131
illustrated in FIGS. 13-15 will not be described in further
detail.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, illustrated are elevational
and top plan views of an apparatus 148. In an exemplary embodiment,
the apparatus 148 includes all of the above-described components of
the apparatus 10, and these components are given the same reference
numerals. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 148 includes
all of the above-described components of the apparatus 10, except
that the apparatus 148 does not include the opening 70, the linking
member 44, and the actuators 46a and 46b.
[0051] The apparatus 148 further includes a tubular handling device
150. The tubular handling device 150 includes a
vertically-extending support member 152. An arm 154 is pivotally
coupled to the vertically-extending support member 152. At its
pivot coupling to the vertically-extending support member 152, the
arm 154 defines an axis 156, which is parallel to the axis 20 and
spaced therefrom in the direction 78. A gripper 158 is coupled to
the distal end portion of the arm 154. An axis 160 is defined by
the arm 154 at its coupling to the gripper 158. The axis 160 is
perpendicular to the axis 156, regardless of the pivot position of
the arm 154 with respect to the axis 156.
[0052] The arm 154 includes segments 154a, 154b and 154c. The
segment 154a is pivotally coupled to the vertically-extending
support member 152. The segment 154b is pivotally coupled to the
segment 154a at a pivot connection 154d. The segment 154c is
pivotally coupled to the segment 154b at a pivot connection 154e.
The gripper 158 is coupled to the segment 154c at the axis 160. A
support pedestal 162 of one or more supports is positioned
proximate the platform 12.
[0053] The tubular handling device 150 further includes a
vertically-extending support member 164, an arm 166, a gripper 168
and a support pedestal 170, which are identical to the
vertically-extending member 152, the arm 154, the gripper 158 and
the support pedestal 162, respectively. An axis 171 is defined by
the arm 166 at its coupling to the gripper 168. The
vertically-extending support member 164, the arm 166, the gripper
168 and the support pedestal 170 are arranged to be symmetric,
about an axis 172, to the vertically-extending member 152, the arm
154, the gripper 158 and the support pedestal 162, respectively.
The axis 172 is perpendicular to each of the axes 20 and 74,
extends midway between the racks 36a and 36b, and intersects the
axis 86. At its pivot coupling to the vertically-extending support
member 164, the arm 166 defines an axis 173, which is parallel to
the axis 20 and spaced therefrom in the direction 78. The axis 173
is parallel to the axis 156 and symmetric thereto about the axis
172. The axis 171 is perpendicular to the axis 173, regardless of
the pivot position of the arm 166 with respect to the axis 173. The
vertically-extending member 152, the arm 154, the gripper 158 and
the support pedestal 162 will not be described in further
detail.
[0054] The apparatus 148 further includes a plurality of tubular
members 174 positioned proximate the support pedestal 162, and a
plurality of tubular members 176 positioned proximate the support
pedestal 170. Each tubular member in the pluralities of tubular
members 174 and 176 is coupled to one other tubular member when
joining tubulars. The coupled tubular members 72 and 73 are part of
the plurality of tubular members 174.
[0055] In operation, in an exemplary embodiment with continuing
reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, the apparatus 148 is employed to
assemble a string of drill pipe or casing as part of, e.g., oil and
gas exploration and production operations. More particularly, at
least one tubular member is temporarily coupled to the top drive
26, which operates to couple that tubular member to another tubular
member which already extends within the wellbore 16 or is
vertically positioned between the wellbore 16 and the tubular
member coupled to the top drive 26; this other tubular member may
be part of a string of drill pipe or casing.
[0056] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the coupled tubular members 72
and 73 are supported by the support pedestal 162. The arm 154 moves
downward along the vertically-extending support member 152 and thus
along the axis 156. Before, during or after this downward movement,
the arm 154 pivots about the axis 156 in a clockwise direction 179,
as viewed in FIG. 17. Before, during or after this pivoting, the
gripper 158 and thus the axis 160 move away from the axis 156 in
the direction 78. In an exemplary embodiment, to move the gripper
158 and thus the axis 160 in the direction 78, each of the segments
154b and 154c may pivot about the pivot connections 154d and/or
154e. In an exemplary embodiment, to move the gripper 158 and thus
the axis 160 in the direction 78, as viewed in FIG. 16, the segment
154b pivots in a clockwise direction, and the segment 154c pivots
in a counterclockwise direction.
[0057] Before, during or after the movement of the gripper 158 in
the direction 78, the gripper 158 rotates about the axis 160,
relative to the arm 154, so that the gripper 158 extends
horizontally, perpendicular to the vertically-extending support
member 152. The gripper 158 engages the tubular member 73. In an
exemplary embodiment, the gripper 158 engages the tubular member 73
by gripping the tubular member 73. The arm 154 then moves upward
along the vertically-extending support member 152 and thus the axis
156, lifting the coupled tubular members 172 and 173 upward. During
this lifting, as viewed in FIG. 16, the segment 154b pivots in a
counter-clockwise direction, and the segment 154c pivots in a
clockwise direction, thereby moving the gripper 158 and thus the
axis 160 and the coupled tubular members 72 and 73 towards the axis
156 in a direction 178, which is opposite the direction 78.
Moreover, the gripper 158 rotates about the axis 160, relative to
the arm 154, so that the gripper 158 and thus the coupled tubular
members 72 and 73 extend vertically.
[0058] After the coupled tubular members 72 and 73 extend
vertically and have been lifted high enough to clear the rig floor
14, the arm 154 pivots about the axis 156, pivoting the coupled
tubular members 72 and 73 in a counterclockwise direction as viewed
in FIG. 17. This pivoting continues until the coupled tubular
members 72 and 73 are aligned with the axis 86 and are positioned
underneath the top drive 26. As necessary, the carriage 24 and thus
the top drive 26 move along the axis 20 and relative to the tower
18 so that the top drive 26 is at a position along the axis 20 at
which the tubular member 72 can be coupled to the top drive 26. The
tubular member 72 is then coupled to the top drive 26. During or
after the coupling of the top drive 26 to the tubular member 72,
the gripper 158 disengages from, or otherwise releases, the tubular
member 73. The arm 154 then pivots about the axis 156 in the
clockwise direction 179, as viewed in FIG. 17, so that the arm 154
is no longer underneath the top drive 26. The top drive 26 then
lowers the tubular members 72 and 73 through the opening 84 and
towards the wellbore 16. Before, during or after the lowering of
the tubular members 72 and 73, the top drive 26 operates to couple
the tubular member 73 to another tubular member either extending in
the wellbore 16 or being vertically positioned between the wellbore
16 and the tubular member 73; this other tubular member may be part
of a string of drill pipe or casing.
[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, before, during or after the
coupling of the top drive 26 to the tubular member 72 and the
subsequent lowering of the tubular members 72 and 73, the arm 166
pivots about the axis 173 in a counterclockwise direction, as
viewed in FIG. 17. The gripper 168 and thus the axis 171 move away
from the axis 173 in the direction 78. Before, during or after the
movement of the gripper 168 and the axis 171 in the direction 78,
the gripper 168 rotates, about the axis 171 and relative to the arm
166, so that the gripper 168 extends horizontally, perpendicular to
the axis 173. The gripper 168 engages a tubular member 180, which
is coupled to a tubular member 182 and is supported by the support
pedestal 170. The tubular members 180 and 182 are part of the
plurality of tubular members 176. The arm 166 then moves upward
along the vertically-extending support member 164 and thus the axis
173, lifting the coupled tubular members 180 and 182. During this
lifting, the gripper 168 and thus the axis 171 and the coupled
tubular members 180 and 182 move in the direction 178 towards the
vertically-extending support member 164 and thus the axis 173. The
gripper 168 moves in the direction 178 in the same manner by which
the gripper 158 moves in the direction 178 towards the
vertically-extending support member 152. Additionally, during the
lifting of the coupled tubular members 180 and 182, the gripper 168
rotates about the axis 171, relative to the arm 166, so that the
gripper 168 and thus the coupled tubular members 180 and 182 extend
vertically.
[0060] After the coupled tubular members 180 and 182 extend
vertically and have been lifted high enough to clear the rig floor
14, the arm 166 pivots about the axis 173, pivoting the coupled
tubular members 180 and 182 in a clockwise direction as viewed in
FIG. 17. This pivoting continues until the coupled tubular members
180 and 182 are aligned with the axis 86 and are positioned
underneath the top drive 26. As necessary, the carriage 24 and thus
the top drive 26 move along the axis 20 and relative to the tower
18 so that the top drive 26 is at a position along the axis 20 at
which the tubular member 182 can be coupled to the top drive 26.
The tubular member 182 is then coupled to the top drive 26. During
or after the coupling of the top drive 26 to the tubular member
182, the gripper 168 disengages from, or otherwise releases, the
tubular member 180. The arm 166 then pivots about the axis 173 in a
counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 17, so that the arm
166 is no longer underneath the top drive 26. The top drive 26 then
lowers the tubular members 180 and 182 through the opening 84 and
towards the wellbore 16. Before, during or after the lowering of
the tubular members 180 and 182, the top drive 26 operates to
couple the tubular member 180 to the tubular member 72. Before,
during or after the coupling of the top drive 26 to the tubular
member 182, the above-described operation of the arm 154 is
repeated for another pair of coupled tubular members from the
plurality of tubular members 174, which are subsequently coupled to
the tubular member 182. In several exemplary embodiments, the
above-described tandem, or alternating, operation of the arms 154
and 166 is repeated to continue to assemble the string of drill
pipe or casing, of which the tubular members 72, 73, 180 and 182
are a part.
[0061] In view of the above and the figures, one of ordinary skill
in the art will readily recognize that the present disclosure
introduces an apparatus including a carriage movable along a
drilling tower; a linking member pivotally coupled to the carriage;
at least one actuator extending between the carriage and the
linking member to pivot the linking member between first and second
pivot positions; and a top drive pivotally coupled to the linking
member. According to one aspect, the apparatus includes the
drilling tower arranged to extend longitudinally along a first
axis; wherein the top drive extends longitudinally in a parallel
relation to the tower; and wherein the pivot coupling between the
top drive and the linking member permits the top drive to continue
to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the tower when
the linking member pivots between the first and second pivot
positions. According to another aspect, the top drive is spaced
from the drilling tower by first and second spacings when the
linking member is in the first and second pivot positions,
respectively, the first and second spacings extending in a
direction that is perpendicular to the first axis, the second
spacing being greater than the first spacing. According to yet
another aspect, the apparatus includes a platform to which the
drilling tower is coupled; and a first opening formed in the
platform and adapted to be disposed above a wellbore, the first
opening defining a third axis that is spaced in a parallel relation
from the first axis by the first spacing. According to still yet
another aspect, the apparatus includes a second opening formed in
the platform and adapted to receive a tubular member, the second
opening defining a fourth axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the second spacing. According to
still yet another aspect, the linking member includes first and
second members spaced in a parallel relation, the first and second
members being pivotally coupled to the carriage at a first pivot
connection, the first and second members being pivotally coupled to
the top drive at a second pivot connection. According to still yet
another aspect, the second pivot connection pivots about the first
pivot connection when the linking member pivots between the first
and second pivot positions. According to still yet another aspect,
the at least one actuator includes first and second actuators, the
first actuator extending between the carriage and the first member,
the second actuator extending between the carriage and the second
member. According to still yet another aspect, the linking member
further includes a plurality of transversely-extending members,
each of which extends between the first and second members.
According to still yet another aspect, each of the first and second
members is an arcuate member.
[0062] The present disclosure also introduces an apparatus
including a drilling tower extending longitudinally along a first
axis; a carriage movably coupled to the drilling tower; a linking
member pivotally coupled to the carriage to permit the linking
member to pivot between first and second pivot positions about a
second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis; and a top
drive extending longitudinally in a parallel relation to the
drilling tower, the top drive being pivotally coupled to the
linking member to permit the top drive to continue to extend
longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling tower when
the linking member pivots between the first and second pivot
positions. According to one aspect, the top drive is spaced from
the drilling tower by first and second spacings when the linking
member is in the first and second pivot positions, respectively,
the first and second spacings extending in a direction that is
perpendicular to the first axis; and wherein the second spacing is
greater than the first spacing. According to another aspect, the
apparatus includes a platform to which the drilling tower is
coupled; and a first opening formed in the platform and adapted to
be disposed above a wellbore, the first opening defining a third
axis that is spaced in a parallel relation from the first axis by
the first spacing. According to yet another aspect, the apparatus
includes a second opening formed in the platform and adapted to
receive a tubular member, the second opening defining a fourth axis
that is spaced in a parallel relation from the first axis by the
second spacing. According to still yet another aspect, the
apparatus includes at least one actuator extending between the
carriage and the linking member to pivot the linking member between
the first and second pivot positions. According to still yet
another aspect, the apparatus includes a first electric motor
coupled to the top drive and movable therewith to move the top
drive along the first axis and relative to the drilling tower.
According to still yet another aspect, the drilling tower includes
a first rack; and wherein the apparatus further includes a first
pinion operably coupled to the first electric motor and engaged
with the first rack to move the top drive along the first axis and
relative to the drilling tower. According to still yet another
aspect, the drilling tower further includes a second rack spaced
from the first rack in a parallel relation; and wherein the
apparatus further includes a second electric motor coupled to the
top drive and movable therewith to move the top drive along the
first axis and relative to the drilling tower; and a second pinion
operably coupled to the second electric motor and engaged with the
second rack to move the top drive along the first axis and relative
to the drilling tower. According to still yet another aspect, the
carriage defines an opening through which the first and second
racks extend. According to still yet another aspect, the first and
second electric motors are spaced from each other in a direction
that is perpendicular to the first axis; and wherein the first and
second pinions are spaced from each other in the direction.
According to still yet another aspect, the first and second
electric motors are spaced from each other in a first direction
that is parallel to the first axis; wherein the first and second
pinions are spaced from each other in the first direction and in a
second direction that is perpendicular to the first axis; and
wherein the apparatus further includes third and fourth pinions
engaged with the first and second racks, respectively, wherein the
third and fourth pinions are spaced from each other in each of the
first and second directions. According to still yet another aspect,
the apparatus includes a base to which the drilling tower is
pivotally coupled to pivot the drilling tower between third and
fourth pivot positions; wherein the drilling tower includes a first
portion; and a second portion pivotally coupled to the first
portion to pivot the second portion between fifth and sixth pivot
positions when the drilling tower is in the third pivot position;
and wherein the top drive is movable along each of the first and
second portions of the drilling tower when the second portion is in
the sixth pivot position. According to still yet another aspect,
the apparatus includes a second linking member coupled to each of
the carriage and the top drive to pivot between seventh and eighth
pivot positions; wherein the top drive defines a third axis that is
parallel to the first axis; wherein a first spacing is defined
between the third axis and the first portion of the drilling tower
when the second linking member is in the seventh pivot position;
wherein a second spacing is defined between the third axis and the
first portion of the drilling tower when the other linking member
is in the eighth pivot position; and wherein the second spacing is
greater than the first spacing. According to still yet another
aspect, the apparatus includes a tubular handling device to
position one or more tubular members proximate the drilling tower,
the tubular handling device including a first gripper to engage a
first tubular member; and a first arm coupled to the first gripper,
the first arm defining a third axis that is parallel to the first
axis and spaced therefrom in a first direction, the first arm being
movable along, and pivotable about, the third axis; and a fourth
axis that is perpendicular to the third axis, the fourth axis being
movable from the third axis in the first direction and movable to
the third axis in a second direction opposite the first direction,
the first gripper being rotatable, relative to the first arm, about
the fourth axis.
[0063] The present disclosure also introduces a method including
providing a drilling tower extending longitudinally along a first
axis; coupling a carriage to the drilling tower; pivotally coupling
a linking member to the carriage to permit the linking member to
pivot between first and second pivot positions about a second axis
that is perpendicular to the first axis; and pivotally coupling a
top drive to the linking member so that the top drive extends
longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling tower, the
top drive being pivotally coupled to the linking member to permit
the top drive to continue to extend longitudinally in a parallel
relation to the drilling tower when the linking member pivots
between the first and second pivot positions. According to one
aspect, the top drive is spaced from the drilling tower by first
and second spacings when the linking member is in the first and
second pivot positions, respectively, the first and second spacings
extending in a direction that is perpendicular to the first axis;
and wherein the second spacing is greater than the first spacing.
According to another aspect, the method includes coupling the
drilling tower to a platform; wherein a first opening is formed in
the platform and is adapted to be disposed above a wellbore, the
first opening defining a third axis that is spaced in a parallel
relation from the first axis by the first spacing. According to yet
another aspect, a second opening is formed in the platform and is
adapted to receive a tubular member, the second opening defining a
fourth axis that is spaced in a parallel relation from the first
axis by the second spacing. According to still yet another aspect,
the method includes extending at least one actuator between the
carriage and the linking member to pivot the linking member between
the first and second pivot positions. According to still yet
another aspect, the method includes coupling a first electric motor
to the top drive; and employing at least the first electric motor
to move at least the top drive and the first electric motor along
the first axis and relative to the drilling tower. According to
still yet another aspect, the drilling tower includes a first rack;
and wherein the method further includes operably coupling a first
pinion to the first electric motor; and engaging the first pinion
with the first rack. According to still yet another aspect, the
drilling tower further includes a second rack spaced from the first
rack in a parallel relation; wherein the method further includes
coupling a second electric motor to the top drive; operably
coupling a second pinion to the second electric motor; and engaging
the second pinion with the second rack; and wherein employing at
least the first electric motor to move at least the top drive and
the first electric motor along the first axis and relative to the
drilling tower includes employing at least the first and second
electric motors to move at least the top drive, the first electric
motor, and the second electric motor, along the first axis and
relative to the drilling tower. According to still yet another
aspect, the carriage defines an opening through which the first and
second racks extend. According to still yet another aspect, the
first and second electric motors are spaced from each other in a
direction that is perpendicular to the first axis; and wherein the
first and second pinions are spaced from each other in the
direction. According to still yet another aspect, the first and
second electric motors are spaced from each other in a first
direction that is parallel to the first axis; wherein the first and
second pinions are spaced from each other in the first direction
and in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first axis;
and wherein the method further includes engaging third and fourth
pinions with the first and second racks, respectively, wherein the
third and fourth pinions are spaced from each other in each of the
first and second directions. According to still yet another aspect,
the drilling tower includes a first portion and a second portion
pivotally coupled thereto; and wherein the method further includes
pivoting the drilling tower between third and fourth pivot
positions; pivoting the second portion between fifth and sixth
pivot positions when the drilling tower is in the third pivot
position; and moving the top drive along each of the first and
second portions of the drilling tower when the second portion is in
the sixth pivot position. According to still yet another aspect,
the method includes pivotally coupling another linking member to
each of the first portion and the top drive to pivot between
seventh and eighth pivot positions; wherein the top drive defines a
third axis that is parallel to the first axis; wherein a first
spacing is defined between the third axis and the first portion of
the drilling tower when the second linking member is in the seventh
pivot position; wherein a second spacing is defined between the
third axis and the first portion of the drilling tower when the
other linking member is in the eighth pivot position; and wherein
the second spacing is greater than the first spacing. According to
still yet another aspect, the method includes employing a tubular
handling device to position one or more tubular members proximate
the drilling tower, including providing a first gripper; coupling a
first arm to the first gripper, the first arm defining a second
axis that is parallel to the first axis and spaced therefrom in a
first direction, and a third axis that is perpendicular to the
second axis; moving the first arm along the second axis; pivoting
the first arm about the second axis; moving the third axis from the
second axis in the first direction; rotating the first gripper,
relative to the first arm, about the third axis; engaging a first
tubular member with the first gripper; and moving the third axis,
the first gripper and the first tubular member towards the second
axis in a second direction opposite the first direction. According
to still yet another aspect, employing the tubular handling device
further includes providing a second gripper; coupling a second arm
to the second gripper, the second arm defining a fourth axis that
is parallel to the first axis and spaced therefrom in the first
direction, and a fifth axis that is perpendicular to the fourth
axis; moving the second arm along the fourth axis; pivoting the
second arm about the fourth axis; moving the fifth axis from the
fourth axis in the first direction; rotating the second gripper,
relative to the second arm, about the fifth axis; engaging a second
tubular member with the second gripper; and moving the fifth axis,
the second gripper and the second tubular member towards the fourth
axis in the second direction.
[0064] The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so
that a person of ordinary skill in the art may better understand
the aspects of the present disclosure. Such features may be
replaced by any one of numerous equivalent alternatives, only some
of which are disclosed herein. One of ordinary skill in the art
should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure
as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and
structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the
same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. One of
ordinary skill in the art should also realize that such equivalent
constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure, and that they may make various changes,
substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
[0065] The Abstract at the end of this disclosure is provided to
comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn.1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly
ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted
with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or
limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
[0066] Moreover, it is the express intention of the applicant not
to invoke 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, paragraph 6 for any limitations of
any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim
expressly uses the word "means" together with an associated
function.
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